Sampdoria director general Beppe Marotta has jumped to the defence of Antonio Cassano.

Cassano was barracked by Samp fans after their 0-0 draw with Bari.

"I believe that this expression should be accepted, because it arrives from a player often accused of not wanting to speak with the media," Marotta told Radio Anch'io Sport. "It's an outburst, that of Cassano, and it comes at the end of a not so wonderful game, which turned a minority of the supporters.

"I believe Cassano's comments were designed to protect the group. I consider Cassano a top class player who has given us emotions and extraordinary games. But like all the top class players when Cassano expresses normality, a section of the fans cannot accept it. These declarations should not be considered as the 'cassanate' of the past.

"If one day he should want to leave, we could only be grateful for what he has done for Samp. He deserves respect for this alone.

"Yesterday Antonio appeared bitter. He spoke referring to the insults that were thrown at him by a tiny minority of the fans at Marassi, but maybe he should have listened again to some of the facts that have emerged recently, including his exclusion from La Nazionale.

"He holds the Italy jersey very dear, so in this moment he lives together with it in a state of unease. As for the rest, we also need to respect the choices of the Italy boss."